Compal has introduced many interesting laptop concepts in the past, such as the modular Adapt X laptop, Infinite laptop with a rollable display, and many more. While these are just concepts, they are still very interesting to look at, and may even be realized at a future date.

One of the company’s latest concept happens to be the Compal AI Book. Unlike what the name suggests, the laptop’s most interesting aspect does not have anything to do with AI, but rather the way it utilizes the palm rest area. Unlike most laptops which simply feature a trackpad, Compal has decided to grant the AI Book’s palm rest area with a full-fledged E Ink display.

Even more interestingly, the laptop’s E Ink palm rest will extend beyond the laptop’s display when in clamshell mode, allowing users to get a sneak peek of their notifications, notes, to-do lists, and more. As pointed out by Liliputing, since E Ink displays do not have to refresh at all, static content can be retained even when the laptop is turned off.

The E Ink display will feature touch and stylus support, allowing it to basically become a digital notepad when necessary. It also sports a hinge, and can flip outwards when the laptop is closed, and function as a tablet of sorts.

Readers who are curious regarding the “AI Book” branding should be pleased to know that there is no needless use of AI. Compal states that the AI branding was added because the laptop can display AI content, which is quite absurd since that can be done on literally any display.

Of course, being a concept product, we do not have any exact specifications of the system. Nor do we have an idea when, if at all, the concept will ever become a reality. That said, the idea definitely appears to have merits, and might even be welcomed by folks who can find a use for it. For now, laptop hunters can check out the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 on Amazon, currently available with a 39% discount.